Runcie backs pig farmers

6 March 2000



Runcie backs pig farmers

FORMER Archbishop of Canterbury Robert Runcie has spoken up for pig farmers, accusing animal welfare pressure groups of ignorance about farm conditions.

Writing in The Daily Telegraph, Lord Runcie, a former amateur pig breeder, also denounced as a “travesty” the treatment of British farmers as they struggle against European competitors.

Lord Runcie says it is ironic that organisations such as the Humane Slaughter Association, which deal in practical animal welfare, struggle for funds.

In comparison, other organisations with little real contact with farm animals “spend vast sums on sensational advertising” and “seem to have money to spare”.

He added: “But those who shout loudest are not necessarily the best friends of the animals themselves.”

Lord Runcie hit out at the situation which sees cheaper imports produced to lower welfare standards flood Britain.

“It is a travesty that we are at present able to buy, sell, eat and advertise meat produced in other countries under conditions which would be illegal in this country.”

British pig farmers are accumulating losses at the rate of 4 million a week.

• Bishop leads prayers at pig vigil, FWi, 29 February, 2000

• Churchmen back pig vigil, FWi, 28 February 2000
• The Daily Telegraph 06/03/2000 page 1 and 20